01
stramm
tight
Firm, close-fitting, or pulled taut. Similar to 'straff' (taut), it is used for clothing, ropes, or a snug fit.
example
Die neuen Schuhe sitzen anfangs noch etwas stramm.
The new shoes are still a bit tight at first.
stramm
tight / upright
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Typical verbs
In the meaning of 'fest' (firm) or 'eng' (tight), 'stramm' is often combined with the verbs 'sitzen' (to fit/sit, for clothing) or 'ziehen' (to pull) and 'spannen' (to tighten/stretch, for ropes or muscles).
EXAMPLE
Das Seil muss stramm gespannt sein, damit die Wäsche nicht durchhängt.
The rope must be pulled taut so the laundry doesn't sag.
Fixed expression
The combination 'stramm stehen' is a fixed expression that describes a disciplined, upright posture, as is common in the military.
EXAMPLE
Die Kinder standen zum Spaß vor ihren Eltern stramm.
The children stood at attention in front of their parents for fun.
Typical nouns
In the meaning of 'kräftig und gesund' (strong and healthy), 'stramm' is used almost exclusively for babies or young men, often in the combinations 'ein strammes Baby' (a sturdy baby) or 'ein strammer Bursche' (a sturdy lad).
EXAMPLE
Alle bewunderten das gesunde, stramme Baby.
Everyone admired the healthy, sturdy baby.
Colloquial use
The meaning of 'beachtlich' (considerable) or 'anstrengend' (demanding) is colloquial. It is often used for prices, achievements, or schedules that are challenging.
EXAMPLE
Wir haben heute ein strammes Programm vor uns.
We have a tough program ahead of us today.
Compare with
stramm vs stark
strong
'stark' and 'stramm' can both express that someone or something is strong or requires a lot of effort. 'Stark' is the more general word: it works for physical strength, severe pain, heavy rain, or strong feelings. 'Stramm' is more specific. It often describes a sturdy, healthy body or, colloquially, something considerable and demanding, for example 'ein strammes Programm' (a demanding schedule). For normal strength or intensity, 'stark' is usually more natural. 'Stramm' sounds more tied to particular situations.
stramm
Für den Ausflug haben wir morgen ein strammes Programm geplant.
We have planned a demanding schedule for tomorrow's trip.
stark
Nach dem Training fühlt sich Max stärker als früher.
After the training, Max feels stronger than before.
In real life
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